16 Amazing Tex-Mex Beef Dishes You’ll Love Making
Nothing beats the bold flavors of Tex-Mex cuisine when you’re craving something hearty and satisfying. These beef recipes bring restaurant-quality taste straight to your kitchen.
From slow-cooked shredded meat to sizzling fajitas, each dish packs authentic flavors that’ll have your family asking for seconds every time.
01. Slow Cooker Shredded Beef
Tender beef and pork slow-cooked until perfectly shreddable. This Mexican-style filling works beautifully in tacos, burritos, or served over rice.
Ingredients: 2 lbs beef chuck roast, 1 lb pork shoulder, 1 large onion (diced), 4 cloves garlic (minced), 2 bay leaves, 1 tsp cumin, 1 tsp chili powder, 1 tsp oregano, 2 cups beef broth, salt and pepper to taste.
How To Make Slow Cooker Shredded Beef
1. Season both meats generously with salt and pepper, then sear in a hot skillet until browned on all sides. This creates a flavorful crust that adds depth to the final dish.
2. Transfer seared meat to your slow cooker and add diced onion, minced garlic, bay leaves, cumin, chili powder, and oregano. Pour beef broth over everything until meat is mostly covered.
3. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-5 hours until meat shreds easily with a fork. Remove bay leaves and shred meat directly in the slow cooker, mixing with the flavorful cooking juices.
02. Easy Tamale Casserole
Ground beef layered between cornbread batter creates this weeknight winner. It’s like tamale pie but so much easier to make.
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef, 1 packet taco seasoning, 1 can diced tomatoes, 1 cup frozen corn, 2 boxes cornbread mix, 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, 1 can green chiles, 1 cup sour cream, eggs and oil as cornbread mix requires.
How To Make Easy Tamale Casserole
1. Brown ground beef in a large skillet, breaking it up as it cooks. Add taco seasoning, diced tomatoes, and green chiles, then simmer for 5 minutes until thickened and fragrant.
2. Prepare cornbread batter according to package directions. Pour half the batter into a greased 9×13 baking dish, spreading evenly across the bottom.
3. Layer the beef mixture over cornbread batter, then sprinkle frozen corn and half the cheese on top. Pour remaining cornbread batter over everything, spreading gently to cover.
4. Bake at 400°F for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and cornbread springs back when lightly touched. Top with remaining cheese and bake 5 more minutes until melted.
03. Simple Beef Enchiladas
Flour tortillas stuffed with seasoned ground beef and topped with melted cheese. These enchiladas come together quickly for busy weeknights.
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef, 1 medium onion (diced), 8 flour tortillas, 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, 1 can enchilada sauce, 1 can sliced black olives, 1 packet taco seasoning, 1 cup water.
How To Make Simple Beef Enchiladas
1. Cook ground beef and diced onion in a large skillet until beef is browned and onion is soft. Add taco seasoning and water, then simmer for 3-4 minutes until liquid reduces.
2. Warm tortillas in the microwave for 30 seconds to make them more pliable. Place about ⅓ cup beef mixture down the center of each tortilla and roll tightly.
3. Arrange rolled enchiladas seam-side down in a greased baking dish. Pour enchilada sauce evenly over the top, then sprinkle with cheese and black olives.
4. Bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow filling to set properly.
04. Marinated Carne Asada Tacos
Grilled marinated beef strips served in warm corn tortillas with fresh toppings. The homemade tomatillo sauce makes these tacos absolutely incredible.
Ingredients: 2 lbs flank steak, ¼ cup lime juice, 2 tbsp olive oil, 3 cloves garlic (minced), 1 tsp cumin, corn tortillas, 6 tomatillos, 1 jalapeño, ¼ cup cilantro, 1 small onion, salt to taste.
How To Make Marinated Carne Asada Tacos
1. Marinate flank steak in lime juice, olive oil, minced garlic, cumin, and salt for at least 2 hours or overnight. The acid tenderizes the meat while infusing amazing flavor throughout.
2. For tomatillo sauce, roast husked tomatillos and jalapeño under the broiler until charred and soft, about 8-10 minutes. Blend with cilantro, onion, and salt until smooth.
3. Grill marinated steak over high heat for 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare. Let rest for 10 minutes, then slice against the grain into thin strips.
4. Warm corn tortillas on a griddle until slightly charred and pliable. Fill with sliced beef and top with tomatillo sauce, diced onions, and fresh cilantro.
5. Serve immediately while tortillas are warm and beef is still juicy. I like to set up a taco bar so everyone can customize their own.
05. Homemade Taco Seasoning
Skip the packet and make your own taco seasoning blend. This tastes just like your favorite fast-food restaurant’s version.
Ingredients: 2 tbsp chili powder, 1 tbsp cumin, 1 tsp paprika, 1 tsp oregano, 1 tsp onion powder, 1 tsp garlic powder, ½ tsp cayenne pepper, 1 tsp salt, ½ tsp black pepper.
How To Make Homemade Taco Seasoning
1. Combine all spices in a small bowl and whisk together until evenly mixed. Store in an airtight container for up to 6 months in your spice cabinet.
2. To use, brown 1 pound ground beef and drain excess fat. Add 2 tablespoons of this seasoning mix along with ¾ cup water to the cooked meat.
3. Simmer the seasoned beef for 5-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until liquid reduces and coating becomes thick and clingy. The meat should look glossy and well-coated when ready.
06. Sheet Pan Beef Fajitas
Everything cooks together on one pan for easy cleanup. Flank steak, peppers, and onions roast until perfectly caramelized and tender.
Ingredients: 1½ lbs flank steak, 2 bell peppers (sliced), 1 large onion (sliced), 3 tbsp olive oil, 2 tsp chili powder, 1 tsp cumin, 1 tsp paprika, ½ tsp garlic powder, flour tortillas, lime wedges.
How To Make Sheet Pan Beef Fajitas
1. Slice flank steak against the grain into ¼-inch strips. Toss with 1 tablespoon olive oil and half of the spice mixture until evenly coated.
2. On a large sheet pan, combine sliced peppers and onions with remaining olive oil and spices. Spread vegetables in a single layer for even cooking.
3. Roast vegetables at 425°F for 10 minutes until they start to soften and caramelize around the edges. Push vegetables to one side of the pan.
4. Add seasoned beef strips to the empty side of the pan and roast for 8-10 more minutes until beef is cooked through and vegetables are tender.
5. Warm tortillas and serve fajita mixture with your favorite toppings like guacamole, sour cream, and fresh salsa for a complete meal.
07. South Texas Beef Stew
Chunks of beef simmer in a rich, spicy tomato gravy until fork-tender. This authentic Tex-Mex comfort food pairs perfectly with warm tortillas.
Ingredients: 2 lbs beef chuck (cubed), 2 large tomatoes (diced), 1 bell pepper (diced), 1 onion (diced), 4 cloves garlic (minced), 2 cups beef broth, 2 tsp cumin, 1 tsp chili powder, flour for dusting, vegetable oil.
How To Make South Texas Beef Stew
1. Dust beef cubes lightly with flour seasoned with salt and pepper. Heat oil in a heavy pot and brown beef on all sides, working in batches to avoid overcrowding.
2. Remove beef and sauté onion, bell pepper, and garlic in the same pot until softened, about 5 minutes. The browned bits add incredible flavor to the base.
3. Return beef to pot and add diced tomatoes, beef broth, cumin, and chili powder. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer covered for 1½ hours.
4. Continue cooking until beef is fork-tender and gravy has thickened, about 30 more minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed before serving with warm tortillas.
08. Loaded Taco Salad
Seasoned ground beef and beans over crisp lettuce with all your favorite toppings. This hearty main-dish salad gets better the next day.
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef, 1 can pinto beans, 1 can kidney beans, 1 head lettuce (chopped), 2 tomatoes (diced), 1 cup cheddar cheese (shredded), 1 avocado (diced), corn chips, Catalina dressing, taco seasoning.
How To Make Loaded Taco Salad
1. Brown ground beef in a large skillet, then add taco seasoning and cook according to package directions. Stir in drained pinto and kidney beans and heat through.
2. In a large serving bowl, layer chopped lettuce as the base. The lettuce should be crisp and completely dry for the best texture.
3. Top lettuce with warm beef and bean mixture, then add diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, and diced avocado in colorful layers.
4. Just before serving, add crushed corn chips and drizzle with Catalina dressing. I recommend serving dressing on the side so everyone can add their preferred amount.
09. Baked Beef and Bean Chimichangas
Crispy baked tortillas filled with seasoned beef and beans. These healthier chimis taste amazing without all the oil from frying.
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef, 1 can refried beans, 8 large flour tortillas, 1 cup shredded Mexican cheese, 1 packet taco seasoning, ½ cup water, cooking spray, sour cream and salsa for serving.
How To Make Baked Beef and Bean Chimichangas
1. Cook ground beef until browned, then add taco seasoning and water. Simmer until thickened, then stir in refried beans until well combined and heated through.
2. Place about ⅓ cup filling in the center of each tortilla. Fold in the sides, then roll tightly from bottom to top, securing seam-side down.
3. Place chimichangas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spray tops lightly with cooking spray for golden browning during baking.
4. Bake at 425°F for 15-18 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Top with shredded cheese and bake 2 more minutes until melted.
5. Serve immediately while crispy, with sour cream and salsa on the side. These reheat well in the oven to maintain their crunch.
10. Mexican Meatball Soup
Tender beef meatballs simmer in a flavorful broth with vegetables. This warming soup tastes even better with fresh cilantro mixed into the meatballs.
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef, ½ cup breadcrumbs, 1 egg, 6 cups beef broth, 2 carrots (diced), 1 bell pepper (diced), 1 onion (diced), 3 cloves garlic (minced), 1 can diced tomatoes, cumin and oregano.
How To Make Mexican Meatball Soup
1. Mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Form into 1-inch meatballs, rolling them between your palms for uniform size and cooking.
2. Brown meatballs in a large pot over medium-high heat, turning carefully to brown all sides. Remove meatballs and set aside on a plate.
3. In the same pot, sauté onion, carrots, bell pepper, and garlic until softened, about 6-8 minutes. The vegetables should be tender but still have some bite.
4. Add beef broth, diced tomatoes, cumin, and oregano. Return meatballs to pot and bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer covered for 25-30 minutes.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning before serving. I love adding fresh cilantro and serving with warm tostadas for dipping and crunch.
11. Loaded Wet Burritos
Flour tortillas packed with seasoned beef and beans, then smothered in sauce and cheese. These restaurant-style burritos are incredibly satisfying.
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef, 1 can refried beans, 6 large flour tortillas, 2 cups enchilada sauce, 2 cups shredded Mexican cheese, 1 can diced green chiles, taco seasoning, sour cream and guacamole for serving.
How To Make Loaded Wet Burritos
1. Brown ground beef and season with taco seasoning according to package directions. Stir in refried beans and green chiles, heating until warmed through and well combined.
2. Warm tortillas to make them pliable, then place about ¾ cup filling in the center of each. Fold in sides and roll tightly, placing seam-side down in a baking dish.
3. Pour enchilada sauce evenly over all burritos, making sure each one is completely covered. The sauce prevents the tortillas from drying out during baking.
4. Top generously with shredded cheese and bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly. Let rest 5 minutes before serving.
12. Amazing Shredded Mexican Beef
Perfectly seasoned shredded beef that works in everything from tacos to salads. This versatile recipe delivers authentic Mexican flavors with just the right amount of heat.
Ingredients: 3 lbs beef chuck roast, 2 chipotle peppers in adobo, 1 onion (quartered), 4 cloves garlic, 2 tsp cumin, 1 tsp oregano, 1 tsp chili powder, 1 cup beef broth, 2 bay leaves, salt and pepper.
How To Make Amazing Shredded Mexican Beef
1. Season chuck roast generously with salt and pepper, then sear in a hot Dutch oven until browned on all sides. This creates a flavorful crust that enhances the final dish.
2. Add onion, garlic, chipotle peppers, cumin, oregano, chili powder, and bay leaves to the pot. Pour in beef broth until roast is about halfway covered.
3. Cover and braise in a 325°F oven for 3-4 hours until beef shreds easily with a fork. Check occasionally and add more broth if needed.
4. Remove bay leaves and shred beef directly in the pot, mixing with the concentrated cooking juices. The meat should be incredibly tender and flavorful.
5. Use immediately in tacos, burritos, or salads, or store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually improve overnight.
13. Ultimate Seven Layer Dip
Seven delicious layers featuring seasoned ground beef, beans, cheese, and fresh toppings. This crowd-pleasing dip disappears fast at every gathering.
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef, 1 can refried beans, 2 cups sour cream, 1 packet taco seasoning, 2 cups shredded cheese, 1 cup guacamole, 1 cup salsa, ½ cup black olives (sliced), 2 tomatoes (diced), 3 green onions (chopped).
How To Make Ultimate Seven Layer Dip
1. Brown ground beef and season with taco seasoning according to package directions. Let cool completely before using in the dip layers.
2. In a clear glass dish, spread refried beans as the first layer. This creates a sturdy base for all the other delicious layers.
3. Layer sour cream over beans, then add cooled seasoned beef as the third layer. Sprinkle half the shredded cheese over the beef.
4. Add guacamole and salsa as the next layers, spreading each gently to avoid mixing. Top with remaining cheese, sliced olives, diced tomatoes, and chopped green onions.
5. Chill for at least 2 hours before serving to let flavors meld. Serve with sturdy tortilla chips for the best scooping experience.
14. Sizzling Beef Fajitas
Seasoned beef strips cooked fast and hot with colorful peppers and onions. These traditional fajitas bring restaurant sizzle to your dinner table.
Ingredients: 1½ lbs flank steak, 2 bell peppers (sliced), 1 red onion (sliced), 3 tbsp vegetable oil, 2 tsp chili powder, 1 tsp cumin, 1 tsp paprika, flour tortillas, lime wedges, cheese and sour cream for serving.
How To Make Sizzling Beef Fajitas
1. Slice flank steak against the grain into thin strips. Toss with half the oil and all the spices, making sure every piece is well coated.
2. Heat a large cast-iron skillet or wok over high heat until smoking. Add sliced peppers and onions with remaining oil, stir-frying until crisp-tender.
3. Push vegetables to one side of the pan and add seasoned beef strips. Cook without stirring for 2-3 minutes to get good browning, then stir-fry everything together.
4. Continue cooking for 3-4 more minutes until beef is cooked through but still tender. The vegetables should be slightly charred but still have some crunch.
5. Serve immediately on a hot platter with warm tortillas and your favorite toppings. I like to warm the serving platter in the oven for that authentic sizzling presentation.
15. Mexican-Style Burgers
Juicy beef burgers topped with pepper jack cheese, fresh pico de gallo, and creamy guacamole. These are definitely the best Mexican burgers you’ll ever taste.
Ingredients: 2 lbs ground beef, 6 burger buns, 6 slices pepper jack cheese, 2 tomatoes (diced), 1 onion (diced), 2 jalapeños (minced), ¼ cup cilantro (chopped), 2 avocados, 2 limes, cumin and chili powder.
How To Make Mexican-Style Burgers
1. Season ground beef with cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper, then form into 6 equal patties. Make a slight indent in the center to prevent puffing during cooking.
2. For pico de gallo, combine diced tomatoes, onion, jalapeños, and cilantro with lime juice and salt. Let sit for flavors to meld while you cook the burgers.
3. Grill or pan-fry burgers over medium-high heat for 4-5 minutes per side for medium doneness. Top with pepper jack cheese during the last minute of cooking.
4. Mash avocados with lime juice, salt, and a pinch of cumin for quick guacamole. Toast burger buns lightly for better texture and flavor.
5. Assemble burgers with guacamole on the bottom bun, then the cheesy patty, fresh pico de gallo, and top bun. Serve immediately while everything is fresh and hot.
16. Mexican Tortilla Pizza
Crispy corn tortillas topped with refried beans, seasoned beef, and melted cheese. This fast and versatile meal lets everyone customize their own toppings.
Ingredients: 6 corn tortillas, 1 lb ground beef, 1 can refried beans, 2 cups shredded Mexican cheese, 1 packet taco seasoning, ½ cup water, diced tomatoes, lettuce, sour cream, and salsa for toppings.
How To Make Mexican Tortilla Pizza
1. Brush corn tortillas lightly with oil and bake at 425°F for 8-10 minutes until crispy and golden. They should be completely crisp to support the toppings.
2. Brown ground beef and season with taco seasoning and water according to package directions. Simmer until thickened and most liquid has evaporated.
3. Spread a thin layer of refried beans on each crispy tortilla, leaving a small border around the edges like a traditional pizza crust.
4. Top with seasoned ground beef and shredded cheese, then bake for 8-10 more minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly around the edges.
5. Remove from oven and immediately top with fresh ingredients like diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, and dollops of sour cream. Serve with salsa on the side.
Final Thoughts
These Tex-Mex beef recipes bring authentic flavors and satisfying meals to your dinner table. Each dish offers its own special combination of spices and textures.
Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just your family, these recipes deliver the bold, comforting tastes that make Tex-Mex cuisine so beloved.
